Intense thundery showers are approaching Hong Kong under the influence of a trough of low pressure, even as authorities expect residents to flock to family graves for the Ching Ming Festival.

The Hong Kong Observatory said at 10am on Sunday that a band of intense thundery showers over the seas south of the city was gradually edging closer to the vicinity of the Pearl River Delta.

The forecaster said that showers would be heavier locally in some areas, with a few squally thunderstorms expected in the next couple of hours.

“Members of the public should be aware of the change in weather,” it said.

The weather coincides with the Ching Ming Festival, when many Hongkongers are expected to visit the tombs of their loved ones in droves.